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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 368 reviews

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich, velvety Cajun cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The bold Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika bring a smoky heat, balanced by the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy stovetop meal perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
  • Salt, for pasta water

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Optional Garnishes and Variations:

  • Red pepper flakes for extra heat
  • Fresh lemon juice for brightness
  • Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms
  • Shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to infuse bold flavor.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and let rest.
  3. Slice the Chicken: After resting for a few minutes, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  4. Cook the Pasta: While chicken cooks, boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain pasta and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Add Spices: Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, letting them bloom in the butter for about 1 minute to release full flavor.
  7. Add Cream and Broth: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning as needed.
  9. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat. Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it’s too thick.
  10. Add Chicken: Incorporate sliced chicken, mixing until evenly distributed through the pasta.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for a creamy, flavorful meal.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking the sauce.
  • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish and balances the richness.
  • Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to add nutrition and variety.
  • Shrimp can be used instead of chicken for a seafood variation.
  • If desired, use thighs for juicier chicken with more flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.

Keywords: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, Cajun Chicken Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Cajun Seasoning, Easy Dinner, One-Pan Pasta

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-recipe-2/